Toyota appears to be moving closer to reviving the MR2 name, with trademarks, engineering developments and official Gazoo Racing comments all pointing towards a future mid-engine sports car that could arrive before the end of the decade.
While Toyota has not officially confirmed an MR2 revival, current development work suggests a spiritual successor to the iconic sports car could be under consideration.
Earlier this year, Toyota confirmed it is developing a new Gazoo Racing mid-engine sports car, and when it eventually reaches showrooms, it is expected to feature an all-wheel-drive layout that Toyota engineers believe offers the strongest performance potential.
Toyota MR2 revival is coming closer
Although enthusiasts widely refer to the project as the successor to the MR2, Toyota has not officially confirmed what the production model will be called.
According to Auto Express, the company has already trademarked both “GR MR2” and “GR MR-S”, potentially signalling the future sports car will sit under Toyota’s Gazoo Racing performance division.
Toyota filed the “GR MR2” trademark in 2025, sparking speculation about the return of the iconic nameplate. The badge would align with the company’s existing performance models, including the GR Yaris and GR86.
The alternative “GR MR-S” trademark also carries significance, as the third-generation MR2 was sold as the MR-S in Japan.
All-wheel drive chosen for maximum performance
Speaking with Auto Express, Toyota GR Chief Engineer Naohiko Saito revealed that testing has already identified the ideal layout for the future sports car.
According to Saito, engineers found that “the combination of an all-wheel drive mid-ship layout offers the best layout for high-performance driving.”
Toyota has already been testing elements of the package through its mid-engine Concept M prototype, which currently competes in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series.
The race car remains rear-wheel drive for now and was only in the first of four planned development stages when Toyota officially confirmed the project earlier this year.
Expected powertrain
When the production version eventually arrives, it is expected to feature Toyota’s new G20E turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine.
The engine is rumoured to produce more than 298kW (400hp), giving the lightweight sports car serious performance credentials.
Power is also expected to be delivered through the 8-speed automatic transmission currently being developed for performance-focused Gazoo Racing models such as the GR Corolla and GR Yaris.
Also read: Special-edition Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR revealed
Design inspired by the FT-Se concept
While Toyota has yet to reveal a production-ready design, the future sports car is expected to draw heavily from the dramatic FT-Se concept shown previously by the company.
The sleek concept hinted at Toyota’s vision for a next-generation performance car, combining modern styling with a compact mid-engine layout.
Production still years away
Fans hoping for an immediate MR2 revival will need to be patient. As of mid 2026, Toyota Gazoo Racing confirmed the project remains in Stage 1 of a strict four-stage development process.
Executives have stated that another four to five years of engineering and testing will be required before the car is ready for production, with a showroom arrival not expected until 2029 or 2030.
Toyota says the lengthy development timeline is necessary to perfect the vehicle’s driving dynamics and ensure it delivers the performance expected of a dedicated Gazoo Racing sports car.
Also read: Hardcore Toyota GRMN Corolla confirmed for Australia
Bottom line
Toyota’s future mid-engine sports car is shaping up to be a serious performance machine, with all-wheel drive, a turbocharged engine producing more than 298kW, and a design likely inspired by the FT-Se concept.
While the final name remains unconfirmed, the GR MR2 and GR MR-S trademarks hint at the possible return of one of Toyota’s most iconic sports car nameplates. However, enthusiasts may have to wait until 2029 or 2030 before it finally reaches the road.
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